gourmand
noun
Did you know?
When gourmand first appeared in English texts in the 15th century, it was no compliment: gourmand was a synonym of glutton that was reserved for a greedy eater who consumed well past the point of satiation. The word’s negative connotation mostly remained until English speakers borrowed the similar-sounding (and much more positive) gourmet from French in the 17th century to describe a connoisseur of food and drink. Since then, while the original, unflattering sense of gourmand has remained, it has picked up an additional, softer sense referring to someone who appreciates, and has a hearty appetite for, the pleasures of the table. More recently, gourmand has expanded beyond cuisine and into the world of perfumery: fragrances that evoke edible pleasures are called "gourmands."
Examples of gourmand in a Sentence
Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 23 Mar. 2025
The inaugural selection will be voted on by 300 experts, including chefs, restaurateurs, educators, food and beverage journalists, and gourmands.
—Tori Latham, Robb Report, 4 Mar. 2025
The gourmand’s haven will even curate an entire picnic basket with sandwiches, sides, and desserts (with 24-hour notice).
—Visit Lake Tahoe, AFAR Media, 21 Feb. 2025
Plus, the latter oil gives it a delicious gourmand aroma to delight the senses.
—Kiana Murden, Vogue, 4 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for gourmand
Cite this Entry
“Gourmand.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gourmand. Accessed 28 Mar. 2025.
Copy Citation
Share